Soaring rock formations overlook a tourist-filled Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park in June 2012. Hypertourism is beginning to overwhelm many of America's majestic natural attractions.

Written by

Froma Harrop

Ever since Yosemite National Park won fame for its natural Western splendor, it's gone on many a register of things to see before one dies. It remains a bucket-list favorite, only nowadays there are millions, if not billions, more buckets. The park's crowds have become such that officials there are struggling to find ways to ease the crush of humanity.

Hypertourism has overwhelmed many of America's natural attractions. My recent memories of Rocky Mountain National Park includes crawling along the drives - congestion turning into gridlock when an elk approached the road and posed for ...